Part 3, Chapter 9: Manual Exhibit 3-9-A

Indian Health Service Eye Care Coordination Committee Charter

PURPOSE. The Eye Care Coordination Committee (herein referred to as "the Committee") is established to discuss and make recommendations on many eye care related issues within the Indian Health Service (IHS). The goal of the committee is to achieve effective eye care management in equal partnership with the disciplines of Optometry and Ophthalmology based upon trust and cooperation for the purpose of enhancing the quality, efficiency, and safety of eye care in the IHS.

MEMBERSHIP AND TOURS-OF-DUTY. The Committee will consist of four members, (two Ophthalmologists and two Optometrists). The Chief Clinical Consultants of the professions of Optometry and Ophthalmology will be required to serve on the Committee. The remaining two positions will be appointed by the respective Chief Clinical Consultant of each discipline. Committee members will be appointed or reappointed every two years.

CHAIRPERSON. A chairperson will be appointed by the Committee to perform key tasks and will be appointed or reappointed every two years. The chairperson's responsibilities include the following activities:

Brings pertinent issues to the committee.

Organizes and conducts meetings.

Acts as a Committee liaison to IHS Headquarters.

Represents Optometry, Ophthalmology, or both disciplines as designated by the appropriate discipline chief.

Acts as a spokesperson for IHS Eye Care when designated by the Committee. (Public relations.)

Updates the EYE CARE DIRECTORY annually.

Oversees the publication of the EYE CARE NOTES newsletter.

Finalizes approved documents for submission to Headquarters.

RESPONSIBILITIES. The committee shall plan and coordinate activities and policies which involve both optometry and ophthalmology such as: